For the sixth year in a row, a group of Much Shelist attorneys, staff and family members joined forces for an evening of community service at Lakeview Pantry on Chicago’s Northside. Nearly 25 volunteers sorted canned goods and other donations, and restocked empty shelves in preparation for the pantry’s next food distribution. The firm also delivered boxes of nonperishable food items, which were donated by Much Shelist employees during the month of November.
“This annual event is a great example of our firmwide culture of giving back. I have been an active supporter of Lakeview Pantry, and will be joining the organization’s Board of Directors on January 1,” said Marissa Downs, a principal in the Commercial Litigation practice. ”Much Shelist has supported and encouraged my commitment by sponsoring fundraising initiatives, publicly recognizing my contribution to the organization and working alongside me to combat food insecurity in Chicago.
One of the city’s largest and longest-operating food pantries, Lakeview Pantry is committed to eliminating hunger and poverty by providing food to fill the basic need of hungry people; increasing the independence of its clients through self-help initiatives and other innovative programs; and raising awareness of hunger and poverty and working towards solutions to eliminate them. In November alone (the busiest month of the year), the organization served 2,613 households (4,185 individuals), acquired 178,000 pounds of food and managed 408 individual volunteers and 39 groups who donated a total of 5,040 hours.